Take the plunge, list your home this holiday season
Many people want to unwind as the year comes to an end, spend time with family and enjoy the summer holidays. This is also the time they want to look ahead and action life changing decisions to start 2021 on the right foot, and that could include finding a new home.
The housing market has exceeded expectations this year, and it has continued to get stronger with the median house price across New Zealand up nearly 20% from a year ago. With the market setting new peaks, and potential buyers unable to jet overseas for the holidays, this summer is the right time to list your home.
Don’t undermine a festive season listing
If you are not convinced, there are many reasons why putting your home on the market this festive season will deliver the best results.
It has been a sellers’ market. Property prices are soaring because there are a limited number of homes for buyers to pick from. However, that housing pool only gets smaller over the holidays, and with fewer listing this will help your house stand out and get noticed.
During the summer there tend to be more serious buyers making enquires. The people who come through the doors at open homes are people who want to relocate, and with these factors at play, you’re more likely to secure a quick sale. People will want to relocate before the new year gets busy.
Holidays are not a time for complacency
Although festive spirits are high, if you are listing your home these holidays it is not the time to overlook the basics. It is important to make sure your home doesn’t just appeal for Christmas, but for prospective buyers to visualise how it can be there home all year round. So hide those Christmas decorations and don’t overlook these areas when preparing your home for the market.
Make your home’s features stand out
Identify the strengths of your home, where the ‘wow’ factors are and make them pop. Clear away clutter, dust surfaces and creating a setting that gives potential buyers an elegant impression of a home that is well taken care of.
Remove those personal touches
Put away all those family photos, memorability and personal touches. Buyers want to see a home they can imagine living in, a home that appears move in ready.
Street appeal matters
You’ve got to make your home eye catching to anyone driving by, because first impressions matter. Make sure your lawns are trimmed, plant fresh flowers, tidy up your fence and front door.
Address repairs
Make your house look its best, so if there are any repairs that you have been putting off, make sure you fix them before you go to market.
Set the perfect price
You don’t want to overprice your home and turn people off before they come through the door. During the Christmas season, there will more likely be fewer offers so setting a higher price will reduce your chances of getting more offers to stir up competition.
